What Cortisol Does in the Body & Why It Is So Important
Cortisol is a hormone that is essential to proper body function. It is produced by the adrenal cortex in the adrenal gland and is one of the primary factors in the body’s stress response. So much so that it is often referred to as the stress hormone because it raises the blood pressure during times of stress.
Cortisol is often used in pharmaceuticals and certain drugs for allergies, inflammation and even arthritis. However, in this form it is called hydrocortisone.
There is no getting around the fact that the body needs cortisol in order to function properly. And there is quite a complex system in place in charge of regulating this substance. Basically, the hypothalamus releases CRH, which then triggers the pituitary gland to release ACTH. ACTH then encourages the adrenal cortex in the adrenal glands in the body to produce more cortisol. When you are highly stressed, pregnant, depressed, very athletic, an alcoholic or suffer from a panic disorder, you will have high levels of cortisol.
Cortisol Hormone Level Testing
As you can see, it is all about balance when it comes to cortisol in the body. And when that balance is thrown off, serious problems can arise.
If you have too much cortisol you may end up with Cushing’s Syndrome, which can manifest itself by means of obesity in the upper body and very thin limbs. Or, if you do not have enough cortisol, you may end up with Addison’s Disease, a very serious condition caused most often by tumors on either the pituitary or adrenal glands.
There are treatment options available for those with out of balance levels of cortisol, however, it is much more beneficial for the individual to detect the oncoming fluctuations in this hormone rather than discovering it after the onset of a disease. The best way to do this is by using an at home test or wellness panel test. This test can detect up to ten different bodily substances at once, allowing you to monitor the levels of these substances from the comfort of your own home.
Now, let us be clear about one thing. No at home test is going to be able to diagnose you with a disease or condition. However, it can tell you that your cortisol levels are too high or too low. And with these results you will be able to go to your doctor and ask the right questions and seek the right tests to determine whether or not you do have a condition that needs treating.
Since cortisol is so important to your well being, it is vital you know where your body’s levels stand. And with an at home testing kit you can easily detect your levels and put your mind at ease. Even those individuals that feel extremely healthy may not be on the inside, thus the importance of at home tests.
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October 20th, 2009 at 4:39 pm
[...] most commonly affected by Cushing’s Syndrome are individuals between the ages of 20 and 50. While rare, the disease affects up to 15 million [...]
April 18th, 2011 at 3:32 pm
[...] Cortisol is a naturally occurring hormone, nothing to do with steroids you took in 1991?! what-cortisol-does-in-the-body And to the original OP, I'll go against the grain and say that you're eating too little, unless [...]
May 24th, 2011 at 10:23 am
what are the symptoms of not enough cortisol in the body?
September 30th, 2011 at 5:54 pm
I have hypothyroidism is well replaced. Now have mild hypocortisolism on small dose of hydrocortisone. Is there any natural food / vitamin to take for prevention or slow the process.